The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Poon Hill is one of Nepal’s most legendary long-distance trekking adventures, offering an unmatched combination of dramatic landscapes, ancient Himalayan culture, and high-altitude adventure. This carefully designed 17-day itinerary takes you from lush river valleys and pine forests to arid alpine deserts, culminating in the crossing of the iconic Thorong La Pass (5,416m)—one of the highest trekking passes in the world.
The journey begins with cultural sightseeing in Kathmandu, followed by a scenic drive into the Annapurna region. The trekking trail passes through traditional villages such as Dharapani, Chame, Pisang, Manang, Yak Kharka, and Muktinath, where Tibetan-influenced culture, monasteries, prayer flags, and mani walls dominate the landscape.
A dedicated acclimatization day in Manang ensures safe altitude adaptation before the high-pass crossing. After crossing Thorong La, the trek descends into the Kali Gandaki Valley, allowing time to relax in Tatopani’s natural hot springs and enjoy a classic sunrise hike at Poon Hill (3,210m).
The trek concludes with a scenic drive to Pokhara and a comfortable VIP Sofa Seater luxury bus journey back to Kathmandu, making this itinerary a perfect balance of adventure, comfort, and cultural immersion.
Annapurna Circuit Trek with poonhill – 17 Days Highlights
Cross the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416m)Experience dramatic landscape changes across climatic zones
Acclimatize properly in the beautiful Manang Valley
Visit sacred Muktinath Temple, holy for Hindus & Buddhists
Relax at Tatopani hot springs after the high pass
Witness sunrise over Annapurna & Dhaulagiri from Poon Hill
Travel comfortably by VIP Sofa Seater Luxury Bus
Outline Itinerary
- Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
- Kathmandu Heritage Sightseeing Tour (1,400m)
- Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani (10–12 hrs | Max Altitude: 1,860m)
- Trek from Dharapani to Chame (5–6 hrs | Max Altitude: 2,670m)
- Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (6–7 hrs | Max Altitude: 3,300m)
- Trek from Upper Pisang to Ngawal (4–5 hrs | Max Altitude: 3,660m)
- Trek from Ngawal to Manang via Bhraka (3–4 hrs | Max Altitude: 3,540m
- Acclimatization Day at Manang (3,540m)
- Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (5–6 hrs | Max Altitude: 4,050m)
- Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (5–6 hrs | Max Altitude: 4,525m)
- Cross Thorong La Pass & Trek to Muktinath (8–9 hrs | Max Altitude: 5,416m)
- Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani via Jomsom (6–7 hrs)
- Rest Day at Tatopani (1,190m)
- Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani (6–8 hrs | Max Altitude: 2,880m)
- Poon Hill Sunrise & Trek to Birethanti – Drive to Pokhara (820m
- Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu by VIP Sofa Seater Luxury Bus (7–9 hrs)
- Final Departure from Kathmandu | Optional Trip Extension
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. This day is kept relaxed to allow you to recover from your international journey. After check-in, you may explore nearby streets, cafés, or simply rest. In the evening, you will meet your trekking guide for a detailed briefing covering the itinerary, altitude considerations, safety procedures, and equipment check, ensuring you are fully prepared for the adventure ahead.
Day 02: Kathmandu Heritage Sightseeing Tour (1,400m)
Today you explore the cultural and spiritual highlights of Kathmandu Valley through guided visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You will visit sacred Hindu and Buddhist landmarks, ancient palaces, and hilltop viewpoints overlooking the valley. This sightseeing day not only offers cultural insight into Nepal’s history and traditions but also helps keep your body active without gaining altitude before heading into the mountains.
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani (10–12 hrs | Max Altitude: 1,860m)
Today involves a long but scenic drive from Kathmandu into the Annapurna region. The route follows winding mountain roads alongside rivers, terraced hillsides, forests, and remote villages. As you travel deeper into the countryside, the landscape gradually changes from urban valleys to rugged Himalayan terrain. Regular stops allow time to rest and enjoy local refreshments. By evening, you arrive in Dharapani, a peaceful village that marks the starting point of your trek
Day 04: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (5–6 hrs | Max Altitude: 2,670m)
Your trekking journey officially begins today as you follow the Marsyangdi River through pine forests, suspension bridges, and traditional villages. The trail gradually ascends, allowing your body to adapt naturally to the increasing altitude. Along the way, you pass prayer wheels, mani walls, and local homes reflecting Himalayan life. Chame, the district headquarters of Manang, welcomes you with dramatic mountain backdrops and a relaxed village atmosphere.
Day 05: Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (6–7 hrs | Max Altitude: 3,300m)
Today’s trek offers increasingly dramatic scenery as the valley widens and steep rock walls rise above the trail. The air becomes cooler and drier as you gain altitude. Snow-capped peaks such as Annapurna II and Pisang Peak begin to dominate the skyline. Upper Pisang sits beneath towering cliffs and showcases Tibetan-influenced architecture, prayer flags, and a peaceful mountain lifestyle.
Day 06: Trek from Upper Pisang to Ngawal (4–5 hrs | Max Altitude: 3,660m)
You follow the upper trail today, widely regarded as the most scenic section of the Annapurna Circuit. The path climbs gently across open ridges and alpine pastures, providing excellent acclimatization. Throughout the day, you enjoy uninterrupted views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. Ngawal is a quiet village, ideal for rest and preparation for higher altitudes ahead.
Day 07: Trek from Ngawal to Manang via Bhraka (3–4 hrs | Max Altitude: 3,540m
A relatively short and enjoyable walk takes you toward Manang, passing through Bhraka village, home to an ancient monastery perched above the trail. This section allows time to explore local culture and enjoy views of surrounding glaciers and peaks. Manang is the largest settlement in the region and an important acclimatization hub with bakeries, shops, and mountain views.
Day 08: Acclimatization Day at Manang (3,540m)
This essential rest day helps your body adapt to high altitude. Optional hikes to nearby viewpoints or lakes are available, allowing you to gain elevation during the day and return to sleep lower. You may also explore the village, visit local bakeries, or attend an altitude-awareness talk. Proper acclimatization greatly improves safety for the Thorong La Pass crossing.
Day 09: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (5–6 hrs | Max Altitude: 4,050m)
Leaving Manang, the trail gradually climbs into open alpine terrain. Vegetation becomes sparse, and the landscape feels vast and rugged. The slower pace helps manage altitude while offering expansive views of surrounding peaks and valleys. Yak Kharka is a small settlement used primarily by trekkers preparing for the high pass.
Day 10: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (5–6 hrs | Max Altitude: 4,525m)
Today’s trek is shorter but significant as you approach the base of Thorong La Pass. The trail steadily ascends through rocky terrain, and the air feels thinner. The afternoon is spent resting, hydrating, and preparing for the challenging crossing the following morning.
Day 11: Cross Thorong La Pass & Trek to Muktinath (8–9 hrs | Max Altitude: 5,416m)
The most challenging and rewarding day of the trek begins before dawn. You ascend steadily to Thorong La Pass, reaching 5,416 meters as the sun rises over the Himalayas. After celebrating at the summit, you descend gradually into the Kali Gandaki Valley, reaching Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.
Day 12: Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani via Jomsom (6–7 hrs)
After breakfast, you travel by vehicle through the dramatic Kali Gandaki Valley, one of the deepest gorges in the world. Passing through Jomsom and traditional Mustang villages, the landscape shifts from dry alpine desert to greener hills as you descend toward Tatopani.
Day 13: Rest Day at Tatopani (1,190m)
A well-deserved rest day allows you to fully recover after crossing Thorong La Pass. You can soak in Tatopani’s natural hot springs, easing tired muscles and enjoying a relaxed day surrounded by nature.
Day 14: Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani (6–8 hrs | Max Altitude: 2,880m)
The trail climbs steadily through lush forests, terraced farmland, and traditional villages. Rhododendron forests dominate this section, especially beautiful during spring. Ghorepani is a lively village known for its mountain views and trekking heritage.
Day 15: Poon Hill Sunrise & Trek to Birethanti – Drive to Pokhara (820m
An early morning hike takes you to Poon Hill for a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After descending, you trek to Birethanti and drive to Pokhara, marking the end of your trekking journey.
Day 16: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu by VIP Sofa Seater Luxury Bus (7–9 hrs)
Enjoy a comfortable return journey to Kathmandu by VIP Sofa Seater luxury bus, passing rivers, forests, and rural settlements along the way. The evening is free for shopping or relaxation.
Day 17: Final Departure from Kathmandu | Optional Trip Extension
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey.
Optional extensions include Chitwan Jungle Safari, Lumbini cultural tour, Nagarkot sunrise tour, or Everest scenic flight.
What's Included
- All necessary transportation to and from the trekking route, as per itinerary.
- Accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara as per our itinerary.
- All meals with tea and coffee (breakfast – lunch – dinner) during the trek.
- Accommodation at the lodge en -route during the trek.
- An experienced English-speaking trekking guide.
- Porters for luggage (1 porter per 2 trekkers).
- Guide & Potter food, accommodation, salary, insurance fees.
- Tims (trekking information management system)
- Annapurna conservation fees.
- Trekking map & Duffel bag if necessary.
- First aid medicine kit.
- All government & local taxes.
What's Not Included
- Meals while in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
- Client’s travel insurance.
- Personal trekking equipment.
- Emergency rescue helicopter if necessary.
- Tips for guide & porters.
General Trek Information
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided in tea houses during the trek and 3-star hotels in Annapurna Region Trek.
Meals
Three freshly prepared meals daily during the trek including Dal Bhat, pasta, rice, soups, and vegetables.
Drinking Water
Safe drinking water is provided using filters or purification tablets. Reusable bottles are recommended.
Guide & Porter
Licensed English-speaking guides and local porters ensure safety, navigation, and cultural insights.
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